As temperatures rise across Pakistan during the sweltering summer months, staying hydrated and maintaining digestive health becomes essential. From Karachi to Lahore, and even in cooler cities like Islamabad, heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.
With extreme heat comes the risk of dehydration, digestive distress, and fatigue. Amid all this, Ispaghol, commonly known as psyllium husk, can emerge as a natural and effective remedy to help your body cope.
Let’s explore how this humble pantry staple can become your health hero during heatwaves.
What is Ispaghol?
Ispaghol is derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. The husk of these seeds is rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, making it a versatile ingredient for various digestive and health-related concerns.
In Pakistani households, it’s a go-to solution for constipation, but its benefits extend far beyond that—especially when temperatures rise.
Why Summer Heatwaves are Dangerous
Before we delve into the benefits of Ispaghol, it’s important to understand the effects of summer heatwaves on our bodies:
- Dehydration due to excessive sweating
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Digestive issues, including constipation and acidity
- Fatigue, dizziness, and even heat stroke
- Loss of appetite and irregular bowel movements
All these effects can significantly impact your overall health. Fortunately, adding Ispaghol to your summer routine can offer substantial relief.
Top Benefits of Ispaghol During Summer Heatwaves
-
Prevents Dehydration
Ispaghol has a high water-absorbing capacity. When taken with water, it forms a gel-like substance that helps retain water in the intestines, preventing dehydration and keeping the body cool. This is especially helpful when your body is losing fluids due to sweating.
Tip: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of Ispaghol in a glass of cold water or lemonade to stay hydrated longer. -
Improves Digestion
Summer heat often slows down digestion and leads to irregular bowel movements. Ispaghol is a rich source of natural fiber, which helps in:- Soothing the intestines
- Bulking up stool
- Easing constipation
- Promoting regularity
Especially if you’re eating less due to loss of appetite, Ispaghol keeps your digestive system active and efficient.
-
Reduces Acidity and Heartburn
Many people experience acid reflux or heartburn during summer, often due to eating spicy or oily food. Ispaghol acts as a protective layer inside the stomach and intestines, neutralizing acidity and providing relief from discomfort.
Home remedy: A spoon of Ispaghol in cold milk works wonders for acidity and bloating. -
Natural Coolant for the Body
Ispaghol has a cooling effect on the stomach and body. It helps reduce internal heat, making it perfect for hot climates. Many traditional drinks in Pakistan, such as sattu, mint lassi, and lemon sharbat, can be enhanced with a spoon of Ispaghol to make them even more refreshing and gut-friendly. -
Helps in Weight Management
In hot weather, many people tend to skip meals or overeat when they finally feel hungry. Ispaghol expands in the stomach and gives a feeling of fullness, helping control unnecessary cravings and maintain a healthy weight during summer. -
Controls Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
While not summer-specific, it’s worth mentioning that Ispaghol is beneficial for those with diabetes and cholesterol issues. It slows down the digestion of sugar and prevents blood sugar spikes, which can be exacerbated by summer drinks loaded with sugar. For diabetic patients observing roza (fasting) during long hot days, Ispaghol can help keep blood sugar levels more stable. -
Aids in Detoxification
With increased heat and sweat, toxins can build up in the body. Ispaghol helps cleanse the colon, remove toxins, and support healthy gut flora—keeping your body feeling light and detoxified.
How to Use Ispaghol in Summer
Here are a few easy and traditional ways to include Ispaghol in your summer routine:
- Lemon Ispaghol Drink: Mix 1 tbsp Ispaghol in lemon water with a pinch of black
